Top 10 Family Friendly Fall Activities For All Ages
Explore exciting family fall activities from apple picking to outdoor movie night.
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As the leaves begin the awesome transformation to beautiful red and orange hues and the air turns crisp, the arrival of fall offers families a perfect opportunity to come together and create cherished memories. Here, we delve into our top 10 fall activities for families, exploring the joys they bring and offering tips for maximizing your experience.
apple picking
Harvesting apples is a quintessential fall activity that combines outdoor adventure with delicious rewards. Find a local orchard where you can pick your own apples straight from the trees. It’s a thrill for the kids to pluck the biggest, juiciest apples and filling your baskets brings a sense of accomplishment! Some orchards even offer cider pressing and fresh doughnuts, making it a well-rounded and fun fall family outing.
Tips
Check the orchard's website for opening hours and apple varieties in season
Don't forget reusable bags or baskets for collecting apples
Bring cash for purchases
Plan to arrive early to avoid crowds and ensure the best selection
Finding The perfect pumpkin
Heading to a pumpkin patch is an annual tradition for many families. Whether you're on the hunt for the perfect jack-o'-lantern or a variety of pumpkins for decorating, pumpkin patches offer a wide selection. Some even include additional activities like hayrides and petting zoos for added family fun.
Tips
Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the patch
Bring a tape measure to ensure your pumpkins fit your carving plans
Explore the various pumpkin shapes and colors to add uniqueness to your decor
Corn Maze
Corn mazes are a classic fall activity that combines excitement with a touch of spookiness. Test your family's navigational skills as you attempt to find your way out of intricate corn mazes. Some mazes incorporate themed challenges or even nighttime adventures for added thrills.
Tips
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you may spend a while exploring
Go early if you have younger children to avoid nighttime spookiness
Make it a friendly competition to see who can find the exit first
Leaf Collecting and DIY Crafts
Fallen leaves offer a canvas for creativity. Encourage your family to collect leaves of different shapes and colors, and then channel that creativity into crafting. Create beautiful autumn-themed crafts like leaf garlands, paintings, or even leaf pressings in scrapbooks.
CREDIT: VECTEEZY
Tips
Bring along a notebook for leaf identification and descriptions
Use collected leaves to decorate your home for a touch of fall indoors
Look up leaf craft ideas online for inspiration
Bonfire and S'mores
A bonfire is the perfect way to embrace the chillier evenings of fall. Gather around the fire, tell stories, and enjoy the warmth and coziness it brings. Don't forget the marshmallows for roasting s'mores - a fall treat you should not go without!
CREDIT: VECTEEZY
Tips
Ensure fire safety by having a bucket of water or a hose nearby
Bring along a guitar, musical instruments or Bluetooth speaker for a fireside sing-along
Experiment with different types of chocolate and crackers for unique s'mores combinations
Outdoor Movie Night
Having a movie night outside is a cool and fun experience for the family. Grab a projector or head to an outdoor movie theater! Set the stage with a fall-themed film that captures the spirit of the season and gather your loved ones around for a cozy evening.
Tips
Choose a fall-themed movie that the whole family will enjoy, like a classic Halloween flick or an autumn adventure
Create a comfortable viewing area with blankets, pillows, and cozy seating arrangements
Consider setting up a bonfire or fire pit to add warmth and ambiance
Don't forget the snacks - prepare an assortment of popcorn, warm cider, and autumn-inspired treats for a true cinematic experience
Check the weather forecast and have a backup plan in case of rain or chilly temperatures
Use a projector and a white sheet or screen for a clear and immersive viewing experience
Encourage everyone to bring their favorite fall-themed blanket or sweater to stay warm and cozy throughout the movie
DIY Costume Making
If you’re looking to get creative this year, making your kid’s costume is a great activity to connect with your kids. Have everyone brainstorm ideas, gather supplies and spend quality time together while designing and crafting unique Halloween outfits!
Tips
Explore thrift stores for costume inspiration and affordable materials
Consider coordinating costumes with a theme for added family fun
Encourage kids to brainstorm and sketch their costume ideas for a personalized touch
Host a costume fashion show at home to showcase your creations
Haunted Houses
Delve into the spirit of Halloween by embarking on a family-friendly haunted house adventure. Explore eerie corridors, encounter friendly ghosts, and experience thrills and chills that are perfect for all ages.
Tips
Research local haunted houses or haunted hayrides known for their family-friendly atmosphere. Many establishments offer less scary options for younger visitors.
Check the opening hours and any age restrictions to ensure a suitable experience for your family
Dress in comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes for walking through haunted attractions
Capture the memories by bringing a camera to take photos of your brave family members
Emphasize the fun and excitement of the experience to younger children ensuring they understand it's all in good fun
Consider visiting during daylight hours if you have younger children who might find nighttime visits too spooky
After your haunted adventure, continue the Halloween spirit by enjoying a homemade spooky-themed dinner or treats at home
Bake Fall Goodies
Embrace the flavors of fall by spending a day baking together. From classic pumpkin pie to apple crisp, cinnamon rolls to cozy soups, there are countless recipes to explore. Baking not only fills your home with delicious aromas but also provides an opportunity for family members to bond in the kitchen. And who doesn’t love food?!
CREDIT: VECTEEZY
Tips
Choose recipes that match your family's taste preferences
Allocate tasks so everyone can participate, from mixing to decorating
Don't forget to savor your homemade fall treats together afterward
Fall is such an exciting time of year! The cooler weather makes it easier and more enjoyable to spend time outside. These 10 memorable fall activities offer families a chance to make the best of the fall season while creating lasting memories together!
Remember! Your kiddos are only little for a short period of time and time flies so fast… So, grab your baskets, hiking boots, and creative spirit, and enjoy as many fall activities that your family will cherish for years to come.
